During suspected pitot-static problem, which steps provide the safest course?

• A. Continue using the primary instruments and hope readings normalize.
• B. Rely solely on the autopilot to maintain control.
• C. Call for immediate emergency landing.
• D. Use standby instruments, cross-check, and follow emergency procedures.

Answer: (D)

When a pitot-static problem is suspected, the safest approach is to rely on standby instruments, cross-check against other data, and follow the emergency procedures you’ve been trained to use. Standby instruments are designed to provide data independently of the primary pitot-static system, so they give a more reliable reference when the normal air data may be faulty. By cross-checking, you compare readings from multiple sources (primary airspeed, altitude, and the standby ones) to identify what’s trustworthy and what’s not, reducing the chance you overreact to a faulty indication. Following the established emergency procedures ensures you manage the aircraft safely: you switch to any alternate air sources if available, configure the aircraft properly, communicate and prepare for a potential abnormal landing, and maintain control of the airplane with a known, safe data set.

Relying on the primary instruments and hoping readings normalize can lead to misinterpretation and loss of control. Depending solely on autopilot is unsafe because the autopilot will follow faulty data. A sudden, immediate emergency landing isn’t always required immediately; you follow the checklist, stabilize the aircraft with standby data, and only proceed with a landing plan when appropriate.